As Middle East conflict rages, Swiss tradition of uniting adversaries is changing

Switzerland’s history of neutrality has allowed it to play a part in maintaining communications between enemy states and helping to resolve their disputes. Yet this traditional role is having to adapt to increasing turbulence in international relations. As the US and Israel pound Iran with missiles and the Islamic theocracy retaliates with drone strikes against neighbouring countries, Switzerland has offered itself as a go-between between the warring sides. The offer reflects its traditional role as a neutral messenger and sometime host of negotiations between adversaries that no longer have direct relations. Swiss diplomats have represented US interests in Tehran via a “protecting power mandate” under its good offices since 1980, following Washington’s break in diplomatic relations with Iran after Islamic radicals took American embassy staff hostage in the city in 1979. Since then, Switzerland has helped with matters including managing consular services, conveying high-level ...